What makes a great clinical teacher: trainer and trainees perspective

The role of the master as a guide to the apprentice is one that has been at the core of medicine since its inception, but what makes this experience worthwhile? Is it the attributes of the teacher, the learner, or both? Here, those at different stages of their medical careers: student, intern, trainee and professor; discuss the qualities that a teacher must possess for optimum learning to occur. Such traits encompass far more than just knowledge-sharing, and instead focus on the relationship that a doctor fosters with his or her patient and the enthusiasm with which they carry out their work. Bestowing such qualities upon the next generation of doctors through learning opportunities is imperative for the profession to continue to improve and grow.